20 October 2010 An award-winning south coast art gallery has just been officially ‘Accredited’ by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA).
Eastbourne’s Towner Gallery was officially opened in April 2009 and in its first 18 months has gone from strength to strength winning critical acclaim and awards including the RIBA award and the Public and Community Award from the Sussex Heritage Trust.
Currently showing ARTIST ROOMS, an exhibition of works from one of the 20th century’s most iconic photographers Robert Mapplethorpe, and Here, There, Everywhere, an exhibition bringing together an eclectic mix of artists including Eric Ravilious, Grayson Perry and Tracey Emin, Towner is leading the way with a top programme of displays each year.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Neil Stanley said “We are very pleased to receive the official Accreditation from the MLA and it is a great achievement for Towner staff and volunteers who promote best practice in our wonderful gallery and manage the collection well.
“Accreditation means that visitors will find first class facilities and there are always different schemes in place that allow visitors to really interact with the Towner collection, through tours, workshops, outreach programmes and more. Our current exhibitions are attracting some fantastic feedback and this latest accreditation adds to an impressive year for Towner in 2010.”
The MLA’s Museum Accreditation Scheme sets nationally agreed standards for all museums in the UK. Towner’s award proves that it measures up, meeting the guidelines on how it is run, how it looks after its collections and the services it provides its visitors.
Andrew Motion, Chair of MLA, said “Being awarded Accreditation is an impressive achievement. It recognises the high standard and service that Towner provides and acknowledges the hard work of its volunteers and staff.”
With a packed programme of events still to come this autumn, including Collection Store Tours each month, family drop-in sessions during half-term and a Mapplethorpe Weekend in November, visitors can experience the accredited Towner for themselves with a choice of activities on offer.
For more information on what’s on at Towner call 01323 434670.
